Dáil Questions on Broadband connectivity in new housing developments – 13th October 2015

Question No. 420

To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to give direction to local authorities that a condition of planning of all new housing developments includes e-fibre connectivity; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

– Anthony Lawlor.

For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 13th October, 2015.

Ref No: 35355/15

REPLY

Minister of State for the Environment, Community and Local Government (Deputy Paudie Coffey)

I am not aware of any problems in relation to the provision of connectivity for broadband in new developments, but I understand that the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources wish to meet with my Department to discuss a number of matters of interest to both our Departments. My Department will be happy to facilitate such a meeting at an early date.

[Ref No.: 35356/15] * To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to give direction to local authorities that a condition of planning of all new housing developments includes e-fibre connectivity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. – Anthony Lawlor.

* For WRITTEN answer on Tuesday, 13th October, 2015. (605 Received on 6th October, 2015.)

REPLY

Alex White Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Planning policy is a matter for the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government. I therefore have no power to issue directions to Local Authorities on any aspect of planning and building rules and policies.

My Department does, however, monitor issues which may act as barriers to the deployment of broadband services.

In this regard, my Department has indicated to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, that it sees benefits in exploring possible ways of amending planning legislation in order to facilitate cost effective and acclerated rollout of broadband.

This could include the question of ducting into new builds that would provide a conduit for fixed line connectivity from the outset. Such a development would support the Government’s broadband objectives.